Aligned Data Centers and Calibrant Energy on Oct. 22 announced a first-of-its-kind agreement under which Calibrant will deliver a 31 MW/62 MWh battery energy storage system at Aligned’s data center campus in the Pacific Northwest.
The on-site system, planned to be operational in 2026, will enable the facility to come online and scale operations years earlier than would be possible with traditional utility upgrades.
Calibrant and Aligned have been partnering with a regional utility in the Pacific Northwest since the start of negotiations to explore flexibility as a means to increase and accelerate interconnection, the companies said.
Aligned’s adaptive data center solutions power customers’ most demanding cloud, AI / high-performance compute (HPC), and enterprise workloads.
“This project flips the script on how data centers access power,” said Phil Martin, CEO at Calibrant. “Rather than the false choice between waiting years for system upgrades or having to go off grid entirely, we’re working with leading data center providers like Aligned to use distributed energy solutions to facilitate and accelerate grid interconnection.”
“This innovative model allows large power users to take control of their energy future while being stewards of their community – ensuring growth objectives are met in a manner that supports grid reliability, has minimal environmental impact, and doesn’t burden others with the costs.”
This will be the first time in the U.S. that a battery system is purpose-built to accelerate interconnection and bring a large-scale data center online.
Developed using Calibrant’s Path to Power solution – a replicable, scalable approach that leverages on-site energy to overcome siting and capacity bottlenecks – the system functions as a grid-responsive asset, designed to discharge during peak demand, bolster grid reliability, and ensure uninterrupted service for Aligned’s customers, the companies said.
The battery system exceeds international safety standards by incorporating multiple layers of protection, including safer battery chemistry, built-in fire mitigation measures, and remote 24/7 monitoring – for reliable and safe operations.
Calibrant and Aligned confirmed they are considering similar projects in other markets, signaling a repeatable approach for data center operators facing interconnection challenges.
